Word Origin & History

relic early 13c., "body part or other object from a holy person," from O.Fr. relique (11c.), from L.L. reliquiæ (pl.) "remains of a martyr," from L., "remains, remnants," noun use of fem. pl. of reliquus "remaining, that which remains," from re- "back" + root of linquere "to leave" (see relinquish). Sense of "remains, ruins" is from early 14c. Old English used reliquias, directly from Latin.

Example Sentences for relics

Suffice it to record the fact that these relics are admittedly pre-Christian.

This layer was evidently composed of the relics of a Romano-British people.

Curious legends often cluster round these relics of ancient times.

There were not wanting, however, many other relics of those stormy times.

In the morning he is shown the curiosities, chiefly Scripture relics, in the palace.

Postage stamps, postmarks, and Indian relics for postage stamps.

Relics have served as efficacious instruments to accomplish that end.

These he would remove and hide under his pillow like relics.

Stratford is full of relics of Shakespeare and statues and portraits in his memory.

Around, the earth was strewed with skulls and other relics of humanity.